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Race winners Steve Wentz (left) and Angie Johnson (right) pose with family members of the late Cal Miller during the 16th annual Cal Miller Bike Race Sunday at Zorbaz. The 36-mile race drew roughly 50 cyclists from around the region. Photo by Trisha Marczak

sports Cyclists from around the region woke up early Sunday for a road race aimed at preserving the memory of late Perham bike enthusiast Cal Miller.
Around 50 riders lined up for the trek, which took them on three 12-mile loops around Little Pine Lake. The 36-mile race took off and wrapped up at Zorbaz....
Perham, 56573

Perham Minnesota 222 2nd Avenue SE 56573

2013-03-04 19:38:14

Cyclists from around the region woke up early Sunday for a road race aimed at preserving the memory of late Perham bike enthusiast Cal Miller.

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Around 50 riders lined up for the trek, which took them on three 12-mile loops around Little Pine Lake. The 36-mile race took off and wrapped up at Zorbaz.

Miller is remembered as a man with a passion to bike. He died at the age of 46 after an unexpected brain aneurysm.

Competitors squared off at the beginning, quickly breaking into a few distinct packs. In the end, Steve Wentz walked away with the overall title. Wentz, of West Fargo, N.D., broke a Cal Miller record, winning with a time of 1:24:24. Angie Johnson walked away with the overall female champion title for the second year in a row. She also broke a record, finishing with 1:26. Last year, Johnson finished with a time of 1:38:33.

Friends and relatives of the late Cal Miller also showed up for the race, taking part in organization efforts and cheering along racers. Pat Puetz, who was married to Cal Miller, has been responsible for the organization of the event since it began 16 years ago.

"It's a labor of love," Puetz said after a round of applause following the race.

Awards were also given to the first place winners in each age division. Jake's Bikes of Alexandria was on hand to help with bike repairs. The company also provided raffle prizes.